Endoscope

Abstract

Endoscope device (200) comprising: - an optical system (7) for producing images, - a light source (4), - a sensor (120) for converting images into a photo or video signal, - a means (110) for wireless data transmission, and - an electric energy accumulator (2), in particular a removable accumulator.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] TITLE: Endoscope.

[0003] Technical field of the invention

[0004] The invention relates to the medical field, particularly medical examinations or surgical procedures. The invention relates to an endoscope. The invention also relates to an endoscope device comprising such an endoscope and a sheath or sheaths. The invention further relates to such a sheath. Finally, the invention relates to an endoscopic system comprising such an endoscope and a viewing device.

[0005] Prior art

[0006] The use of current endoscopes is cumbersome. Indeed, current endoscopes require infrastructure and are difficult to use outside of such infrastructure, particularly outside of doctors' offices, hospitals, or operating rooms. They require, in particular, a light source, a camera, and a data transmission connection to bulky hardware assemblies, often organized in a tower of components. These endoscopes are restrictive, especially since they cannot be transported or used just anywhere, primarily due to the infrastructure required for their operation.

[0007] However, there is a need for an endoscope that is simple to use and completely self-contained, lightweight and portable so that it can be used anywhere.

[0008] Presentation of the invention

[0009] The invention relates to an endoscope that improves upon known endoscopes of the prior art. In particular, the invention provides a simple, robust, portable, lightweight, and practical endoscope that can be used anywhere, regardless of any infrastructure. Specifically, the invention provides an endoscope on which sheath mounting is facilitated.

[0010] Summary of the invention

[0011] According to the invention, an endoscope device is defined by claim 1.

[0012] Different embodiments of the endoscope device are defined by claims 2 to 8.

[0013] According to the invention, an endoscopic system is defined by claim 9.

[0014] Different embodiments of the endoscopic system are defined by claims 10 to 13.

[0015] Presentation of the figures

[0016] Other advantages and features will become clearer from the following description of two embodiments of an endoscope device and the accompanying figures in which:

[0017] Figure 1 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of an endoscope device.

[0018] Figure 2 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of an endoscope device.

[0019] Figure 3 is a schematic view of a third embodiment of an endoscope device.

[0020] Figure 4 is a schematic view of one embodiment of an endoscopic system comprising the second embodiment of the endoscope device.

[0021] Detailed description A first embodiment of an endoscope device 200 is described below with reference to figure 1.

[0022] The 200 endoscope device includes:

[0023] - a 100 endoscope and a 10 sheath, and / or

[0024] - an endoscope 100 and an electrical energy accumulator 2.

[0025] The 100 endoscope primarily consists of a housing 1 and an insertion tube 3. The insertion tube 3 is made, for example, of stainless steel, titanium, or plastic. The insertion tube 3 can be flexible or pliable to allow it to follow the curves of the canals being examined. The insertion tube features:

[0026] - a proximal end 140 fixed or attached to the housing, and

[0027] - a distal end 130 at which is arranged an optical system 7 allowing to produce, form or transmit images of objects or structures facing it.

[0028] The insertion tube, in particular the distal end of the insertion tube, is intended to be inserted into a canal or cavity of an animal or human body in order to explore that canal or cavity.

[0029] The endoscope 100 also includes a light source 4. The light source 4 allows light to be emitted and conducted via a second optical fiber conductor 6. The light beams allow objects or structures located in front of the optical system 7 to be illuminated.

[0030] The endoscope 100 includes galvanic contacts 14 connected to the light source 4 via a control module 5 which controls the power supply and therefore the switching on of the light source 4.

[0031] The endoscope 100 includes a first housing 13 for receiving the electrical energy storage unit 2. For example, this first housing 13 has a circular cross-section and / or an overall cylindrical shape. Alternatively, the first housing 13 may have a different shape, in particular a polygonal cross-section, for example, square, rectangular, or hexagonal. The electrical energy storage unit 2 is shaped to have, at least partially, a portion complementary to the geometry of the first housing 13. Preferably, if the cross-section is not circular, the electrical energy storage unit 2 can be indexed in position within the housing 13.

[0032] Preferably, in the sides of the first housing 13, the endoscope 100 includes a magnetic connector 11. This magnetic connector 11 may, in particular, be an annular element, a magnetic ring, or a ferromagnetic ring. Alternatively, this magnetic connector 11 may consist of several discrete magnetic elements arranged around the housing 13. For example, these discrete magnetic elements may be plate-shaped magnets, magnetic plates, or plates made of ferromagnetic materials.

[0033] Preferably, at or near the periphery of the electrical energy storage unit 2, the electrical energy storage unit 2 includes a magnetic connector 21. This magnetic connector 21 may, in particular, be a ring element, a magnetized ring, or a ferromagnetic ring. Alternatively, this magnetic connector 21 may consist of several discrete magnetic elements arranged at or near the periphery of the electrical energy storage unit 2. For example, these discrete magnetic elements may be plate-shaped magnets, magnetized plates, or plates made of ferromagnetic materials.

[0034] The magnetic connectors 11 and 21 are designed to cooperate in securing an electrical energy storage unit 2 to the endoscope 100. Specifically, the reciprocal magnetic forces exerted by the magnetic connector 11 on the magnetic connector 2 tend to pull or hold the electrical energy storage unit 2 at the bottom of the housing 13. This ensures contact between the electrical energy storage unit 2 and the galvanic contacts 14. To ensure this correct pull, the magnetic connectors 11 and 21 are not perfectly aligned along the connector axis when the electrical energy storage unit 2 is at the bottom of the housing 13. This difference in axial positioning, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, allows for the application of a continuous mechanical force to the electrical energy storage unit 2 at the bottom of the first housing 13.

[0035] The endoscope 100 includes a second housing 15 for receiving a tip 101 of the sheath 10. For example, this second housing 15 has a circular cross-section and / or an overall cylindrical shape. Alternatively, the second housing 15 may have a different shape, in particular a polygonal cross-section, for example, square, rectangular, or hexagonal. The tip 101 is shaped to have, at least partially, a portion complementary to the geometry of the second housing 15. Preferably, if the cross-section is not circular, the tip 101 can be indexed into position within the housing 15.

[0036] Preferably, in the sides of the second housing 15, the endoscope 100 includes a magnetic connector 12. This magnetic connector 12 may, in particular, be an annular element, a magnetic ring, or a ferromagnetic ring. Alternatively, this magnetic connector 12 may consist of several discrete magnetic elements arranged around the housing 15. For example, these discrete magnetic elements may be plate-shaped magnets, magnetic plates, or plates made of ferromagnetic materials.

[0037] Preferably, at or near the periphery of the tip 101, the tip 101 includes a magnetic connector 102. This magnetic connector 102 may, in particular, be a ring element, a magnetized ring, or a ferromagnetic ring. Alternatively, this magnetic connector 102 may consist of several discrete magnetic elements arranged at or near the periphery of the tip 101. For example, these discrete magnetic elements may be plate-shaped magnets, magnetized plates, or plates made of ferromagnetic materials.

[0038] The magnetic connectors 12 and 102 are designed to cooperate in securing the tip 101 and thus the sheath 10. The reciprocal magnetic forces of the magnetic connector 12 on the magnetic connector 102 tend to pull or hold the tip 101 at the bottom of the housing 15. This ensures contact between the tip 101 and the bottom of the housing 15, and therefore a certain level of sealing. To ensure this correct pull, the magnetic connectors 12 and 102 are not perfectly aligned along the axis of the endoscope when the tip 101 is at the bottom of the housing 15. This difference in axial positioning, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, allows for the production of a constant mechanical force to hold the tip 101 at the bottom of the second housing 15.

[0039] Thanks to the various magnetic connectors described above, the sheath 10 and / or the electrical energy accumulator 2 can be easily, quickly and precisely placed on or removed from the endoscope 100.

[0040] In particular, the electrical energy accumulator can be

[0041] - a battery, and / or

[0042] - a sterile (single-use) accumulator or a sterilizable accumulator, in particular sterilizable by a process different from another or other elements of the endoscope device.

[0043] As an alternative to the magnetic connectors 12, 102; 11, 21 described previously, the sheath 10 and / or the electrical energy accumulator 2 can be assembled onto the endoscope 100 using other mechanical fastening methods, such as helical connections, including Luer Lock or similar types. In any case, preferably, the sheath 10 can be separated from the optical section.

[0044] The sleeve 10 is preferably made of plastic. The sleeve is preferably for single use. The sleeve may be made of rigid material so as to maintain the shape of the insertion tube 3 when the sleeve 10 is mounted on the insertion tube 3.

[0045] Sheath 10 may include:

[0046] - a first channel 210 extending substantially from the proximal end 140 to the distal end 130 and allowing the delivery, up to the distal end 130, of a rinsing liquid, and / or

[0047] - a second channel 220 extending substantially from the proximal end 140 to the distal end 130 and allowing to be conveyed, up to the distal end 130, a tool or an instrument for intervention in the body.

[0048] Channels 210 and 220 are shown schematically. The rinsing channel 210 may in particular be formed by a gap or space between an internal surface of the sheath 10 and an external surface of the insertion tube 3.

[0049] In this first embodiment shown in Figure 1, a camera 150 can be integrated into the endoscope housing 1. In such an embodiment, the optical flow is, for example, channeled from the optical system 7 to the camera via a bundle of optical fibers 8. In such an embodiment, the camera 150 is advantageously connected to a wireless data transmission means 110 powered via wires by an electrical energy storage device 2, as are other elements 150 and 5. The data transmission means 110 is, for example, an electromagnetic means, in particular a radio means (e.g., Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technology), and includes an antenna 111 or an antenna system.

[0050] A control module 5 allows the power supply and therefore the switching on of the light source 4. It also allows the camera 150 to be controlled.

[0051] A second embodiment of an endoscope device 200 is described below with reference to Figure 2.

[0052] In this second embodiment, the endoscope device differs from the first embodiment only in the differences listed below. The endoscope 100 does not have a camera 150 connected to the optical system 7 via a set of optical fibers 8, but includes a sensor 120 for converting images into a photo or video signal. This image conversion sensor 120 is connected to the optical system 7 and allows the production of a photo or video signal. The sensor 120 is, for example, a CCD sensor.

[0053] Preferably, the endoscope 100 includes a wireless data transmission (or wireless communication) means 110 connected to the conversion sensor 120. The data transmission means 110 is, for example, an electromagnetic means, in particular a radio means (e.g., Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technology), and includes an antenna 111.

[0054] The sensor 120 is preferably powered via wires by the electrical energy storage unit 2. The wireless data transmission means 110 is preferably powered via wires by the electrical energy storage unit 2. In a third embodiment shown in Figure 3, the endoscope 100 includes a viewing device 9, such as an oculus or eyepiece or any other optical interface, connected to the optical system 7 via a first optical fiber conductor 8. The endoscope does not include a camera 150 and a data transmission means 110 as in the first embodiment, and the endoscope does not include an image conversion sensor 120 and a data transmission means 110 as in the second embodiment.

[0055] An embodiment of an endoscopic system 800 is described below with reference to Figure 4.

[0056] The 800 endoscopic system includes:

[0057] - an endoscope 100 as described above or an endoscope device 200 as described above (first embodiment or second embodiment or third embodiment or variants thereof), and

[0058] - a 400 and / or 600 display device.

[0059] The 400, 600 display device allows, in particular, the visualization of images produced by the optical system. It also allows the visualization of all other data.

[0060] The display device may include:

[0061] - a monitor, graphics tablet, computer, or 400 projector allowing viewing on a large surface, for example, a rectangular surface with a diagonal of more than 15 cm, and

[0062] - A 600 device with a 620 screen or a 620 portable projector intended to be mounted on the head of a user such as an operator, practitioner, or surgeon. The 600 device is, for example, a spectacle frame system or a helmet. Preferably, the 600 device is a pair of spectacles, but it can be any device that can be attached to or worn on the user's head and / or positioned in front of the user's eyes. The 600 device may be equipped with one or more 610 magnifiers. The 600 device can be arranged so that the user has in front of one or both of their eyes: - a superposition or juxtaposition:

[0063] -) of a 660 lens of glasses, and

[0064] -) of a 620 screen or projector,

[0065] and / or

[0066] - an overlap or juxtaposition:

[0067] -) with a 610x magnifying glass, and

[0068] -) of a 620 screen or projector,

[0069] and / or

[0070] - an overlap or juxtaposition:

[0071] -) of a 660 lens of glasses, and

[0072] -) with a 620x magnifying glass,

[0073] and / or

[0074] - a single 660 lens for glasses,

[0075] Or

[0076] - a single 610 magnifying glass,

[0077] Or

[0078] - a screen or a 620 projector alone.

[0079] The screen and projector mentioned above cover any device enabling the user to see an image, including an image of a scene captured by the endoscope device 200 described above or a reconstructed image of the deep anatomy and underlying anatomical structures.

[0080] Advantageously, the 600 viewing device can include two cameras 630, for example, two cameras each mounted on one arm of a pair of glasses. These cameras allow for filming or taking pictures of a scene in front of the user in stereoscopy. The data acquired via these cameras can be recorded. Furthermore, it can then be viewed on this 600 viewing device or on the 400 device, or even on any other viewing device that may be external to the 800 system.

[0081] The 800 endoscopic system also advantageously includes: - a central communication module 300, and / or

[0082] - a 500 database, including a database hosted on a server and whose data is accessible via the Internet, and / or

[0083] - a 640, 700 remote control element.

[0084] Preferably, all elements in Figure 4 communicate via wireless links represented by double broken arrows. These wireless communication links are preferably electromagnetic, such as radio links, or use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technology. Preferably, all wireless communication links are secure.

[0085] Preferably, the central communication module allows intercommunication between elements. Alternatively, as described above and shown in Figure 4, the central communication module 300 can be part of:

[0086] - of the 200 endoscope device, or

[0087] - of the 400 display device, or

[0088] - of the 600 visualization device, or

[0089] - from database 500, or

[0090] - of the remote control element 640, 700.

[0091] The 500 database can contain a patient's medical data, including:

[0092] -any document in a patient's medical file, and / or - the patient's imaging data, including deep anatomical data, and / or

[0093] -any information, in particular any information on the internet, related to a patient's condition.

[0094] The 400 display unit can be of the type that allows for three-dimensional display of images or videos. Such a 400 display unit allows, in particular, the three-dimensional display of photos or videos captured by the 630 cameras.

[0095] The 600 viewing device can also display images or videos in three dimensions. Specifically, the 600 viewing device allows for the three-dimensional display of photos or videos captured by the 630 cameras.

[0096] Each of the visualization devices advantageously allows visualization, particularly in two or three dimensions, of endoscopic images or videos, images from databases, or even images previously recorded by the 630 cameras.

[0097] The 640, 700 remote control device may include a 700 pedal. By operating this pedal with their foot, the user can, in particular, selectively control different displays on the visualization devices.

[0098] As an alternative or in addition to a foot pedal, the remote control device may include a motion sensor 640. This motion sensor 640 detects user movements, including hand movements, eye movements, and / or eyelid movements. These movements can be interpreted as commands or requests, such as selective display commands on the viewing devices. These commands or requests can be processed by the system 800 or one or more of its components. The motion sensor may consist of one or more cameras, including the aforementioned cameras 630 or one or more specific cameras 640. Alternatively, the remote control device may also include one or more buttons located on the endoscope 100.

[0099] Alternatively, or in addition, the remote control device may include a microphone 650, allowing the user to issue voice commands or requests that can be processed by the system 800 or one or more of its components. The microphone 650 can advantageously be integrated into the viewing device 600, the endoscope 100, or the remote control device 640 or 700.

[0100] Alternatively, or in addition, the remote control device may include a brain activity sensor allowing the user to issue commands or requests through thought, which can be processed by the 800 system or one or more of its components. The brain activity sensor can advantageously be integrated into the 600 visualization device, the 100 endoscope, or the 640 or 700 remote control device.

[0101] The 700 remote control device is advantageous for controlling the operating modes, particularly the display modes, of the display devices. Specifically, the 640 / 700 remote control device allows for the activation and deactivation of the screen or the 620 projector. More generally, the remote control device allows for the control of all operating functions of the 800 endoscopic system, including file selection, file playback, computer program execution, video file playback, fast rewinding within a video file, fast forwarding within a video file, video file recording, image recording, image playback, and image scrolling.

[0102] The previously described endoscopic system 800 can be used during a medical examination or surgical procedure. With this system, the user, particularly the physician or surgeon, can access a wide variety of information conveniently and reliably, either as a complement to or an alternative to the real-time images obtained with the endoscope device 200. Specifically, the system allows the user to review a recording of what they saw and / or did. For example, actions on the remote control device 700 and detections by the motion sensor 640 enable switching between the display modes of the viewing devices 400 and 600. These switching modes can be sequential, occurring in a predefined order with each action on a remote control device, such as each press of a foot pedal 700.For example, while the screen or projector 620 displays images obtained using the endoscope device to the user, a first action allows a switch so that the screen or projector 620 displays previously acquired patient imaging data stored in database 500 to the user. A second action allows a switch so that the screen or projector 620 displays other medical data of the patient to the user.

[0103] The 700 remote control device can include multiple pedals, or the 640 motion sensor can recognize multiple commands in order to:

[0104] - activate or deactivate either of the viewing devices 400, 600, and / or - select either of the information sources (endoscope device 200, database 500, cameras 630).

[0105] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the housing 1 preferably includes elements 4, 7, 110, 120. In particular, advantageously, the housing is a handle 1 including the means 110 for wireless data transmission.

[0106] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the housing 1 is advantageously leak-proof and / or sterilizable. The housing may be non-removable. Sterilization may be carried out using several technologies, including thermal treatment (dry heat or steam), chemical treatment (ethylene oxide), or radiation treatment (UV, ionizing radiation, electron beam, or any other technology).

[0107] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the 100 endoscope can be disposable or not.

[0108] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the 100 endoscope can be a microendoscope, i.e., a 100 endoscope whose insertion tube has a diameter of less than 2 mm.

[0109] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the endoscope 100 can be a sialendoscope (for examining the salivary glands) or an endoscope for examining other organs such as the brain, ear, sinuses, respiratory tract, lacrimal ducts, digestive tract, urinary tract, joints, abdominal cavity, thoracic cavity, biliary or pancreatic ducts, or the gynecological system. Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the sheath 10 is advantageously disposable. It is supplied sterile, packaged, mounted on the insertion tube 3, and then discarded after the medical examination or surgical procedure. Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the sheath 10 can also be non-disposable and sterilizable.

[0110] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the electrical energy storage unit 2 is advantageously disposable. It is supplied sterile, packaged, mounted on the endoscope 100, and then discarded after the medical examination or surgical procedure. Alternatively, the electrical energy storage unit 2 can be sterilizable. Alternatively still, the electrical energy storage unit 2 can be integrated into the housing without being removable; however, it can be recharged from outside the housing.

[0111] - via galvanic contacts provided on the housing, and / or

[0112] - via an induction charger.

[0113] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, a housing may be provided to receive and connect an auxiliary or external electrical energy storage unit which can power the endoscope device 200 when the electrical energy storage unit 2 is discharged.

[0114] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the optical system 7 can advantageously be a system forming an optical flow enabling the formation or display of three-dimensional optical images.

[0115] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, one or more of the elements 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, and 700 may include a data storage means, such as memory or a hard drive, in particular a means using SSD, eMMC, or SD technology. Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the display device 600 may feature:

[0116] - a virtual reality display type operating mode, and / or - an augmented reality display type operating mode.

[0117] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, different sheaths of increasing transverse dimensions can be successively mounted on the insertion tube 3 and introduced successively into a canal or cavity of an animal or human body in order to dilate that canal or cavity before performing a treatment. For example, in certain situations, it is necessary to use, and therefore successively mount and remove, 2 to 5 sheaths on the insertion tube before performing a treatment. In such situations, magnetic attachment of the sheath to the endoscope is particularly advantageous. It allows for quick, easy, and precise attachment of the sheath 10 to the endoscope.

[0118] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the 600 viewing device may include a pair of glasses. This pair of glasses advantageously includes all the 630, 640, and 650 sensors mentioned previously. The pair of glasses also includes wireless telecommunication means for communication with other devices, such as the 200 endoscope device. This pair of glasses allows, in particular, the implementation of:

[0119] - a virtual reality display mode, and / or - an augmented reality display mode, and / or - a data display mode from a database 500 containing a patient's medical data, including (i) any document from a patient's medical record, and / or (ii) the patient's imaging data, including deep anatomical data, and / or (iii) any information, particularly any information on the internet, related to a patient's condition, and / or - a control mode using (i) the remote control device 700, which can be implanted on the glasses, and (ii) the sensors 630, 640, and 650 mentioned previously. The controls allow modification of the glasses' operation, including the display of information. The controls can also be used for other devices such as the endoscope device 200.

[0120] Advantageously, regardless of the embodiment, the 200 endoscope device comprises the following elements:

[0121] - an optical system 7 for producing images,

[0122] - a light source 4,

[0123] - a 120 image-to-photo or video signal conversion sensor, - a 110 wireless data transmission means, and

[0124] - a 2-cell electrical energy storage unit, in particular a removable storage unit.

[0125] Preferably, the electrical energy storage unit 2 provides power to elements 4, 110, and 120. Preferably, elements 4, 7, 110, and 120 form (with other elements) a mechanically coherent or single-piece assembly. In other words, the elements are rigidly fixed or attached to one another.

[0126] - either directly,

[0127] - either indirectly, through fasteners.

[0128] This gives the 200 endoscope device a self-contained, portable, practical and lightweight character.

[0129] The solutions described above are particularly noteworthy for any combination of the following characteristics:

[0130] - The 200 endoscope device can be wire-free, connecting it to an infrastructure.

[0131] - in particular, the generation of light and / or the transmission of images at the endoscope level can be ensured wirelessly,

[0132] - A sheath can be held magnetically onto the endoscope; an electrical energy accumulator can be held magnetically onto the endoscope.

[0133] - Images or video sequences from external sources can be transmitted to glasses or other devices.

[0134] - Equipment integrated into glasses or other devices can be controlled by gestures and / or voice commands from the user, allowing, in particular, access to data that may appear in their field of vision.

[0135] - Thanks to the glasses or other device, the user can review, within their field of vision, a video sequence that they previously recorded, notably with these same glasses or other device.

[0136] - The 660 lenses of the glasses can be (i) completely transparent so that the user can observe a real scene, or (ii) completely opaque so that the user can see information superimposed on a real scene, or (iii) completely transparent so that the user can observe a virtual scene.

[0137] - the glasses or other devices include motion sensors and / or cameras configured to capture user movements and interpret them as commands to one or more elements of the 800 system,

[0138] - the glasses or other device also include one or more magnifying lenses, thus allowing intermittently (i) either viewing a real scene magnified or not (ii) or viewing different information displayed on the glasses or other device (including medical information),

[0139] - to acquire and reproduce three-dimensional images.

[0140] Advantageously, the endoscopic system and / or endoscope device described above:

[0141] - is autonomous (or wireless, with respect to energy and / or data),

[0142] - allows the recording and playback of two-dimensional or three-dimensional images, - can be controlled without manual contact, notably by voice command or by gesture or movement detection, which reduces sterilization issues,

[0143] - allows, through the previously mentioned command, access to data, including patients' medical data,

[0144] - is connected,

[0145] - allows sequential viewing of at least: (i) a scene enlarged directly (through a magnifying glass) or via the viewing device, (ii) a scene in real size directly (through a glass possibly) or via the viewing device and (iii) data (including previously recorded two-dimensional or three-dimensional images).

[0146] Advantageously, the endoscopic system described above implements artificial intelligence to improve the detection of voice or gesture commands or requests and their interpretation based on the context in which the endoscopic system operates. Even more advantageously, the endoscopic system described above implements artificial intelligence to process commands or requests based on the context in which the endoscopic system operates.

[0147] Preferably, the invention proposes to combine, all in one:

[0148] - the endoscope,

[0149] - the light source,

[0150] - the camera, and

[0151] - the data transmission system enabling retransmission onto glasses which allow viewing, particularly in augmented reality, or consultation of a patient's file.

[0152] The system also allows for the transmission of all information to computers or portable tablets. The system is completely portable and allows "the hospital to come to the patient" by enabling medical or surgical procedures to be performed outside of a hospital setting.

[0153] In other respects, the invention is defined by the following propositions:

[0154] 1. Endoscope (100) comprising the following elements:

[0155] -an optical system (7) for producing images, and

[0156] - a light source (4).

[0157] 2. Endoscope (100) according to Proposition 1, characterized in that the endoscope (100) further comprises the following elements:

[0158] - a sensor (120) for converting images into a photo or video signal, and

[0159] - a means (110) of wireless data transmission.

[0160] 3. Endoscope (100) according to proposition 1 or 2, characterized in that the endoscope (100) comprises a housing (1) including the elements (4, 7, 110, 120), in particular a handle (1) including the means (110) for wireless data transmission.

[0161] 4. Endoscope (100) according to proposal 3, characterized in that the casing (1) is waterproof and / or sterilizable.

[0162] 5. Endoscope (100) according to any one of propositions 1 to 4 and according to proposition 2, characterized in that the endoscope (100) comprises an insertion tube (3), the optical system (7) and the conversion sensor (120) being disposed at a distal end (130) of the insertion tube (3).

[0163] 6. Endoscope (100) according to any one of propositions 1 to 5, characterized in that the endoscope (100) is disposable.

[0164] 7. Endoscope (100) according to any one of propositions 1 to 6, characterized in that the endoscope (100) is a microendoscope.

[0165] 8. Endoscope (100) according to any one of propositions 1 to 7, characterized in that the endoscope (100) is a sialendoscope.

[0166] 9. Endoscope (100) according to any one of Propositions 1 to 8 and according to Proposition 2, characterized in that the means (110) of data transmission are electromagnetic transmission means.

[0167] Endoscope (100) according to any one of propositions 1 to 9, characterized in that the endoscope (100) comprises a first magnetic connector (12) intended to cooperate with a second magnetic connector (102) of a sheath to fix a sheath (10) onto the endoscope (100).

[0168] Endoscope (100) according to any one of propositions 1 to 10, characterized in that the endoscope (100) includes a third magnetic connector (11) intended to cooperate with a fourth magnetic connector (21) of an electrical energy accumulator to fix an electrical energy accumulator (2) on the endoscope (100).

[0169] Sheath (10) for endoscope (100), the sheath comprising a second magnetic connector (102) intended to cooperate with a first magnetic connector (12) to fix the sheath (10) onto an endoscope (100).

[0170] Electrical energy accumulator (2) for endoscope (100), the electrical energy accumulator (2) comprising a fourth magnetic connector (21) intended to cooperate with a third magnetic connector (11) to fix the electrical energy accumulator (2) on an endoscope (100).

[0171] Endoscope device (200) comprising:

[0172] - an endoscope (100) according to proposal 10 and a sheath (10) according to proposal 12, and / or

[0173] - an endoscope (100) according to proposal 11 and an electrical energy accumulator (2) according to proposal 13.

[0174] Endoscopic system (800) comprising:

[0175] - an endoscope (100) according to one of proposals 1 to 11 or an endoscope device (200) according to proposal 14, and

[0176] - a visualization device (400, 600).

[0177] Endoscopic system (800) according to the preceding proposal characterized in that the viewing device (400, 600) comprises at least one screen (620) or projector (620), in particular at least one screen (620) or projector installed (620) on a pair of glasses (600), in particular at least one screen (620) or projector (620) installed on a pair of glasses (600) in parallel with a magnifying glass (610).

[0178] 17. Endoscopic system (800) according to proposal 15 or 16, characterized in that the endoscopic system (800) comprises a remote control element (700) of the display of the viewing device (400, 600).

[0179] 18. Endoscopic system (800) comprising:

[0180] - an endoscope (100) according to any one of Propositions 1 to 11 or an endoscope device (200) according to Proposition 14 or an endoscope (100) comprising the following elements: (i) an optical system (7) for producing images, and (ii) a light source (4), and - a viewing device (600) for the images produced by the optical system (7), and

[0181] - a remote control element (700) for the display of the viewing device (600),

[0182] the viewing device (600) being portable, intended to be installed on the head of a user and comprising at least one screen (620) or a projector (620), in particular the viewing device (600) being a pair of glasses (600) comprising at least one screen (620) or a projector (620), in particular the viewing device (600) being a pair of glasses (600) comprising, in parallel with a magnifying glass (610), at least one screen (620) or a projector (620).

[0183] 19. Endoscopic system (800) according to proposal 17 or 18, characterized in that the remote control element (700) comprises a pedal (700) and / or a motion sensor (700, 640).

[0184] 20. Endoscope (100) comprising the following elements:

[0185] -an optical system (7) for producing images, and

[0186] - a light source (4), characterized in that the endoscope (100) includes a first magnetic connector (12) intended to cooperate with a second magnetic connector (102) of a sheath to fix a sheath (10) onto the endoscope (100).

[0187] 21. Endoscope (100) according to Proposition 20, characterized in that the endoscope (100) further comprises the following elements:

[0188] - a sensor (120) for converting images into a photo or video signal, and

[0189] - a means (110) of wireless data transmission.

[0190] 22. Endoscope (100) according to proposal 20 or 21, characterized in that the endoscope (100) comprises a housing (1) including the elements (4, 7, 110, 120), in particular a handle (1) including the means (110) for wireless data transmission.

[0191] 23. Endoscope (100) according to proposal 22, characterized in that the casing (1) is waterproof and / or sterilizable.

[0192] 24. Endoscope (100) according to any one of Propositions 20 to 23 and according to Proposition 21, characterized in that the endoscope (100) comprises an insertion tube (3), the optical system (7) and the conversion sensor (120) being disposed at a distal end (130) of the insertion tube (3).

[0193] 25. Endoscope (100) according to any one of Propositions 20 to 24, characterized in that the endoscope (100) is disposable and / or in that the endoscope (100) is a microendoscope and / or in that the endoscope (100) is a sialendoscope.

[0194] 26. Endoscope (100) according to any one of Propositions 20 to 25 and according to Proposition 21, characterized in that the means (110) of data transmission are electromagnetic transmission means.

[0195] 27. Endoscope (100) according to any one of propositions 20 to 26, characterized in that the endoscope (100) comprises a third magnetic connector (11) intended to cooperate with a fourth magnetic connector (21) of an electrical energy storage device to attach an electrical energy storage device (2) to the endoscope (100). 28. Sheath (10) for an endoscope (100), the sheath comprising a second magnetic connector (102) intended to cooperate with a first magnetic connector (12) to attach the sheath (10) to an endoscope (100).

[0196] 29. Electrical energy accumulator (2) for endoscope (100), the electrical energy accumulator (2) comprising a fourth magnetic connector (21) intended to cooperate with a third magnetic connector (11) to fix the electrical energy accumulator (2) on an endoscope (100).

[0197] 30. Endoscope device (200) comprising:

[0198] - an endoscope (100) according to one of proposals 20 to 27 and a sheath (10) according to proposal 28, and / or

[0199] - an endoscope (100) according to one of proposals 20 to 27 and an electrical energy accumulator (2) according to proposal 29.

[0200] 31. Endoscopic system (800) comprising:

[0201] - an endoscope (100) according to one of proposals 20 to 27 or an endoscope device (200) according to proposal 30, and

[0202] - a display device (9; 400, 600).

[0203] 32. Endoscopic system (800) according to proposal 31 characterized in that the viewing device (9; 400, 600) comprises at least one screen (620) or projector (620), in particular at least one screen (620) or projector installed (620) on a pair of glasses (600), in particular at least one screen (620) or projector (620) installed on a pair of glasses (600) in parallel with a magnifying glass (610).

[0204] 33. Endoscopic system (800) according to proposal 31 or 32, characterized in that the endoscopic system (800) comprises a remote control element (700) of the display of the viewing device (400, 600).

[0205] 34. Endoscopic system (800) according to proposal 33, characterized in that the remote control element (700) comprises a pedal (700) and / or a motion sensor (700).

Claims

26 DEMANDS 1. Endoscope device (200) comprising the following elements: - an optical system (7) for producing images, - a light source (4), - a sensor (120;150) for converting images into a photo or video signal, - a means (110) of wireless data transmission, and - an electrical energy accumulator (2), in particular a removable accumulator.

2. Device (200) according to claim 1, characterized in that the device (200) comprises: - a first magnetic connector (12), and - a sheath (10) equipped with a second magnetic connector (102), the first magnetic connector (12) and the second magnetic connector (102) cooperating to fix the sheath (10).

3. Device (200) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the device (200) comprises a housing (1) including the elements (4, 7, 110, 120), in particular: - a handle (1) including the means (110) for wireless data transmission and / or the electrical energy storage unit (2), and / or - an appendix including the means (110) for wireless data transmission and / or the accumulator (2) of electrical energy.

4. Device (200) according to claim 3, characterized in that the housing (1) is sealed and / or sterilizable.

5. Device (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the device (200) comprises an insertion tube (3), the optical system (7) and the conversion sensor (120) being disposed at a distal end (130) of the insertion tube (3).

6. Device (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the device (200) is disposable and / or in that the device (200) is a microendoscope and / or in that the device (200) is a sialendoscope.

7. Device (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the data transmission means (110) are electromagnetic transmission means, in particular secure electromagnetic transmission means.

8. Device (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the device (200) comprises a third magnetic connector (11) and in that the electrical energy accumulator (2) comprises a fourth magnetic connector (21), the third magnetic connector (11) and the fourth magnetic connector (21) being intended to cooperate to fix the electrical energy accumulator (2).

9. Endoscopic system (800) comprising: - an endoscope device (200) according to one of the preceding claims, and - a viewing device (600) of the type pair of glasses (600), in particular a screen (620) or a projector installed (620) on a pair of glasses (600), in particular in parallel with a magnifying glass (610).

10. Endoscopic system (800) according to the preceding claim characterized in that the endoscopic system (800) comprises an auxiliary viewing device (400) of the type auxiliary viewing screen such as a monitor or graphics tablet or computer or projector (400).

11. Endoscopic system (800) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the endoscopic system (800) comprises a motion sensor (640) fixed on the pair of glasses (600) and / or one or more cameras (630) fixed on the pair of glasses (600).

12. Endoscopic system (800) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the endoscopic system (800) comprises a remote control element (700) of the display of the viewing device (400, 600).

13. Endoscopic system (800) according to claim 12, characterized in that the remote control element (700) comprises a pedal (700) and / or a motion sensor (700, 640) and / or a camera (630).

Images